Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 15, 2026

Murine Superficial Lymph Node Surgery
Published on: May 21, 2012
Memory and the lifespan of human T lymphocytes
P C Beverley1, C A Michie, J L Young
1Imperial Cancer Research Fund, London.
Abstract:
The properties of human CD45RA and CD45R0 T cells are described. CD45R0 cells respond to recall antigens and provide help for B lymphocytes. They produce a wide variety of cytokines including IL-2, IL-4 and IFN-gamma. CD45RA T cells respond poorly to recall antigens and produce mainly IL-2. The phenotype of CD45R0 cells suggests that they may be in cycle and in vivo data shows that they have a short lifespan while CD45RA cells are long lived. The lineage relationship of the two subsets is not clear but in vivo and in vitro evidence suggests bidirectional conversion between CD45RA and CD45R0 phenotypes.
Related Concept Videos
Cell-mediated Immune Responses
Special Features of Adaptive Immunity
The primary cell types involved in adaptive immunity are T cells and B cells. Each type has a unique role in defending the body against pathogens. T cells are responsible for cell-mediated immunity. They identify and eliminate infected cells directly,...
Cells of the Adaptive Immune Response
T Cell Activation and Clonal Selection
Naive T cells that have not yet encountered an antigen express two primary CD...
Immunological Memory
What is Immunological Memory?
Immunological memory is an integral function of the immune system that allows it to recognize and react more rapidly and effectively to pathogens previously encountered. This feature is...
Vaccines

